Convert JPG to RAW
Transform JPG images to various RAW formats.
Convert multiple JPG to RAW online at once.
or drop JPG images here
All files are processed locally 100% in your browser and never uploaded to our servers.
JPG to RAW Converter – Free & Online
Convert your standard JPG images into RAW camera formats (CR2, NEF, ARW, RW2, ORF, PEF, RAF, SR2, etc.) easily with our JPG to RAW converter. RAW files preserve much more detail and allow professionals to edit images with higher flexibility in tools like Lightroom, Photoshop, and Capture One.
What is a RAW File Format?
A RAW file is the unprocessed (or minimally processed) sensor data captured directly by a digital camera — think of it as a “digital negative.” Unlike JPG, which applies compression, white balance, sharpening and color mapping in-camera, RAW files preserve the original sensor readings so photographers can apply non-destructive, highly flexible edits later.
Sensor data (not a finished image): RAW stores the raw sensor output (often from a Bayer/CFA sensor) and requires demosaicing and color processing to become a viewable image.
Higher bit depth: Commonly 12- or 14-bit (sometimes 16-bit), which yields far more tonal steps than 8-bit JPGs and preserves highlight/shadow detail.
Proprietary formats: Most camera makers use their own extensions (CR2/CR3 for Canon, NEF for Nikon, ARW for Sony, RW2 for Panasonic, ORF for Olympus, RAF for Fujifilm, PEF for Pentax, SR2 for older Sony models). DNG (Digital Negative) is an open/archival alternative used to standardize RAW storage.
Large file size: Because RAW stores near-raw sensor values and metadata, files are significantly larger than JPGs.
Metadata rich: RAW files include EXIF, shooting settings, camera profile, lens data and sometimes embedded previews.
Minimal in-camera processing: White balance, sharpening, and noise reduction are typically stored as suggested parameters in metadata, not baked into the pixel data.
Requires special software: Viewing and editing RAW requires RAW processors like Adobe Camera Raw/Lightroom, Capture One, Darktable, RawTherapee, or conversion tools that export to TIFF/DNG/JPG.
Why Convert JPG to RAW?
Greater Editing Control – RAW files preserve more tonal range, highlights, and shadows.
Non-Destructive Adjustments – Perfect for color grading, exposure correction, and advanced photo retouching.
Professional Compatibility – RAW formats are the standard in professional photography workflows.
Future-Proof – RAW files allow you to revisit and re-edit with modern software years later.
How to Convert JPG to RAW Online?
Upload your JPG file.
Select your desired RAW format (CR2, NEF, ARW, etc.).
Click Convert and download your RAW image.
Simple, fast, and free.
Features of Our JPG to RAW Converter
Supports multiple RAW formats: CR2 (Canon), NEF (Nikon), ARW (Sony), RW2 (Panasonic), ORF (Olympus), RAF (Fujifilm), SR2 (Sony), PEF (Pentax).
Batch Conversion available for multiple JPGs.
Fast & Free online conversion.
Secure – files auto-deleted after conversion.
JPG vs RAW – Which is Better?
JPG: Smaller, compressed, quick sharing, but loses detail.
RAW: Large file size, uncompressed, retains all sensor data for editing.
Conclusion: For casual use JPG is fine, but for professional editing, RAW is essential.
JPG vs RAW – Key Differences
| Feature | JPG (Joint Photographic Experts Group) | RAW (Camera Raw Formats like CR2, NEF, ARW, etc.) |
|---|---|---|
| Compression | Lossy compression, smaller file size | Uncompressed or minimally compressed, very large |
| Image Quality | Some detail lost due to compression | Maximum detail preserved from camera sensor |
| Editing Flexibility | Limited adjustments possible | Full control over exposure, white balance, colors |
| File Size | Small (hundreds of KB to few MBs) | Very large (tens of MBs per image) |
| Compatibility | Universally supported | Requires professional editing software |
| Best For | Everyday use, quick sharing | Professional photography, advanced editing |
FAQ(Frequently asked questions) - JPG to RAW Conversion
Can a JPG truly be converted to RAW?
Technically, converting JPG to RAW does not restore lost data. However, it creates a RAW-compatible file format that can be processed in professional editing software.
Why would I convert JPG to RAW if it doesn’t recover details?
Because RAW editing workflows require RAW-like files for adjustments. This ensures compatibility with editing tools and allows more flexibility than JPG.
Which RAW formats do you support?
We support CR2, NEF, ARW, RW2, ORF, RAF, SR2, and PEF.
Does JPG to RAW increase file size?
Yes, RAW files are much larger than JPGs because they store more metadata and are less compressed.
Can I edit a JPG in Lightroom without converting to RAW?
Yes, but editing in RAW format gives much more control over exposure, highlights, shadows, and color grading.